Laxi Dictionary

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Definition handle in British English

handle verb

verb
/ˈhænd(ə)l/
1

to take action in order to deal with a difficult situation

Example

The government was criticized for the way it handled the crisis.

Example

Congratulations! You handled that really well.

Example

We felt that the dispute was badly handled.

1.1

to be responsible for doing a particular job or piece of work

Example

Inspector Dawkin will be handling this case.

Example

Publicity is being handled by an outside agency.

Synonyms and related words
take charge (of) see to handle answer for accept carry
1.2

to be able to deal successfully with a large amount of work or information

Example

The newer computers can handle massive amounts of data.

Example

The helpline handles 100 calls an hour.

1.3

to deal with the people or goods that pass through an airport, port, or other centre

Example

The depot handles over two million tonnes of freight a week.

Synonyms and related words
bill of entry bill of lading cargo
1.4

to deal successfully with a person who is likely to become angry or upset

Example

All the staff are trained to handle difficult customers.

Synonyms and related words
cope overcome carry off
2

to touch or hold someone or something

Example

All chemicals must be handled with care.

Example

Some prisoners complained that they'd been roughly handled.

Synonyms and related words
carry hold on hang on touch pick up handle
3

to control an animal or a vehicle using your hands

Example

She handled the horse very confidently.

Synonyms and related words
draw a line in the sand limit control
3.1

if a vehicle handles well or badly, it is easy or difficult to control

Synonyms and related words
back up belt up be on someone’s tail
Example

He denied burglary but admitted handling stolen goods.

Synonyms and related words
deal in trade barter abduct abet aid and abet
Definition handle in British English